연구진은 폐열을 활용해 자체 열 관리를 구동하는 차세대 데이터센터 냉각 시스템을 제안했다.

Data centers are widely viewed as a drain on power grids. Even when operators pay for grid access, electricity costs continue to rise, prompting engineers to seek alternative power sources. While solar-powered facilities utilizing extensive photovoltaic arrays represent one solution, researchers from Germany and Japan have demonstrated another approach: “elastocaloric cooling.” This system relies on shape-memory films rather than mechanical motors to regulate temperature. The study, detailed in Nature Energy, describes a prototype comprising a thermal actuator and a cooling unit. The actuator utilizes a titanium-nickel shape-memory alloy film that, when exposed to heat, generates an elastocaloric refrigeration effect. It deforms in a manner that pumps heat away, thereby cooling its source. Integrated heat sinks further enhance heat removal efficiency. According to the paper, the cooling cycle operates in four distinct steps.

First, as the shape-memory alloy actuator film reaches a critical temperature threshold, it stretches, generating force that elongates a separate refrigerant film. Once the refrigerant film contacts the heat sink, thermal energy is drawn out, cooling both the actuator and refrigerant films and allowing them to revert to their original dimensions. The refrigerant film then recontacts the heat source, absorbing its thermal load and repeating the cycle continuously.

Data centers consume vast quantities of electricity and RAM, while generating persistent acoustic noise that affects nearby residents. They also rely heavily on water for traditional cooling systems. Shape-memory alloys offer a potential solution to these challenges. Although the research paper does not explicitly target data centers, industry experts recognize the technology’s applicability for maintaining optimal operating temperatures in server environments. While this innovation may not reduce overall facility electricity consumption, it could significantly lower—or potentially eliminate—the power required to operate conventional air conditioning units. Additionally, it would conserve water for more critical municipal and industrial uses. However, the technology remains in its early stages; the current film and its cooling effects serve primarily as a proof of concept.

The researchers noted in the paper that the films produced only 2.09 milliwatts of cooling power, with performance constrained by slow actuation speeds and the physical dimensions of the heat exchanger. Nevertheless, the study confirms that elastocaloric cooling systems are viable. Their applications extend beyond AI data centers to consumer electronics. As the authors suggest, “Why get a liquid-cooled laptop when you can get an elastocaloric-cooled one?”